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As soon as I saw the picture of a police officer spraying students sitting on the ground at a peaceful protest the words just poured out. Somehow it got mixed up with another story about a French politician and the scandal that ensued. I struggled a few months back as I heard some very sexist remarks, some being expressed by French women. I’ve always been outspoken when it comes to women’s issues. I fail to understand how some people can ridicule women who have gone through such ordeals. I’m talking about victims in general, not any particular case. Why women join in on this is beyond me.

So as I put down words, it’s what I do when I get angry, a story formed. This action is seen through the eyes of a French student. Leaving her well-to-do family she loves her new life in America. When a scandal caused by the arrest of a French politician erupts, she’s forced to deal with a past event. French and American culture and views clash, she doesn’t want to be caught in the middle.

This an author’s protest. Someone said, a writer with a political and social conscience. The pen is mightier than the sword, so goes the saying, often true. I don’t claim what I write will make a difference but hopefully it will raise awareness, it only takes one and it grows.

We can all make a difference in our own ways. Last weekend I could not stay silent and I began posting the video. I’m thankful for technology, there is no denying the facts, too many videos and pictures were taken!

OCCUPY ME , a title that imposed itself straightaway, a young woman’s own recall of the events.

University of California President Mark G. Yudof called the chancellors of all 10 campuses and reminded them of the right to protest peacefully.

“We cannot let this happen again,” he said, according to a statement from the president’s office.

Mechanical engineering student David Buscho, 22, of San Rafael, described being paralyzed with fear as he felt the spray sting “like hot glass.”

“I had my arms around my girlfriend. I just kissed her on the forehead and then he sprayed us,” he said. “Immediately we were blinded. … He just sprayed us again and again and we were completely powerless to do anything.”

Nine students hit by pepper spray were treated at the scene, two were taken to hospitals and later released, university officials said. Ten people were arrested.

Meanwhile, UC Davis police Chief Annette Spicuzza and two officers have been placed on administrative leave.

Yudof said Sunday that he was “appalled” by images of protesters being doused with pepper spray and plans an assessment of law enforcement procedures on all 10 campuses.

Katehi, speaking Monday morning on KQED Radio, said she had not authorized officers to use pepper spray and called it a “horrific incident.” She said she takes full responsibility but will not step down.